Safety Manager (Full-Time, Exempt)

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular and beloved zoos in the southeastern United States, attracting over 1.2 million visitors annually. Spanning 56 acres, ZooTampa features an expansive range of naturalistic animal exhibits nestled within a lush, tropical garden setting. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), ZooTampa is renowned for its educational programming, recreational amenities, up-close animal encounters, and a variety of engaging seasonal events. With a strong reputation as one of the country’s most family-friendly zoos, ZooTampa is committed to its mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals while creating exceptional and personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in immersive and fun ways.

ZooTampa’s vision is to inspire all who visit or engage with the organization to join in the vital effort to protect and preserve wildlife. As part of this inspiring mission, the organization offers an enriching and dynamic working environment where employees play key roles in fostering unforgettable natural connections for visitors. The Safety Manager position at ZooTampa plays a critical role in this ecosystem by leading and managing all aspects of workplace safety, guest safety, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance across the entire organization. As a highly visible management role within the People Department, the Safety Manager partners with all levels of leadership and staff to create a safe and healthy environment that protects team members, guests, animals, and zoo assets.

The Safety Manager at ZooTampa will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining comprehensive safety programs, ensuring regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal laws as well as AZA accreditation standards. This includes overseeing occupational health and safety initiatives, conducting safety inspections, investigating incidents and accidents, delivering training sessions, coordinating emergency response plans, and promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement throughout the zoo.

Engagement across departments is a key component of the role, requiring the Safety Manager to frequently interact with Operations, Security, Facilities, Animal Care, Animal Health, and other teams to identify risks, recommend corrective actions, and ensure safety measures are effectively integrated into all aspects of zoo operations. The manager also oversees safety-related equipment, such as fire protection systems and life-safety devices, coordinating with regulatory agencies and external vendors to maintain compliance and functionality. This is a dynamic and ever-evolving role where no two days are the same, providing opportunities to make a significant, tangible impact on the safety and well-being of all who contribute to and visit ZooTampa.

Ideal candidates are passionate about building safe environments, possess strong leadership and communication skills, and are knowledgeable in emergency management, risk reduction strategies, and regulatory compliance. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys being out in the field, fostering positive relationships, and solving problems proactively to prevent incidents. The Safety Manager is also expected to represent the organization in liaising with regulatory bodies, preparing safety reports, leading safety committees, and championing the continuous promotion of safe work practices. This full-time position offers the chance to be part of a dedicated team that values animal welfare, public safety, and team member well-being, all within the vibrant, family-centered atmosphere of ZooTampa.